Acting on intelligence information police on erev Shabbos Parshas Noach moved to high operational alert status in the capital, with a focus on the Old City. Police fear an outbreak of Arab violence following Friday afternoon Islamic prayer services on Har Habayis.

Entry to Har Habayis is restricted to Muslims with Israeli ID cards. For males, only persons 40 or over will be permitted. There are no age restrictions for women.

In light of the increase in Arab violence and attacks in recent weeks and months, police are hoping to preempt and prevent another round of violence. Hundreds of police and border policemen were stationed in eastern areas of the capital and the Old City on Friday morning, hoping to prevent renewed clashes and attacks.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)